Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting
Also known as: CINV, chemotherapy nausea, treatment-related nausea
Nausea and vomiting are common side effects of chemotherapy. Anti-nausea medicines prescribed by the oncology team are the main treatment. Acupuncture and acupressure at PC6 are used as supportive care in many cancer centres. Any herbal medicine must be cleared with the oncology team first, because of possible drug interactions.
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Lifestyle & Diet
- •Take anti-nausea medicines as prescribed, including before nausea starts.
- •Small, bland, frequent meals and sipping fluids often help.
- •PC6 acupressure wristbands are low-risk and can be used alongside medication.
Cautions & Contraindications
- •Never start herbs during chemotherapy without the oncology team's agreement, as interactions may affect treatment.[]
- •Avoid needling when platelet or white cell counts are very low; check recent blood results.[]
- •Do not needle a limb with lymphoedema or at a port or line site.[]
Frequently Asked Questions
Does acupuncture help chemotherapy nausea?+
PC6 acupuncture and acupressure have reasonable evidence as supportive care for chemotherapy nausea. They're used alongside, not instead of, anti-nausea medicines.
Can I take Chinese herbs during chemotherapy?+
Only with your oncology team's approval. Some herbs can interact with chemotherapy drugs.
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Sources & Further Reading
Clinical guidance, red flags and safety notes on this page draw on the following current sources alongside the classical references above.
Educational reference for licensed practitioners. Not a substitute for individual clinical assessment. Refer to conventional care for any red-flag or undiagnosed presentation.